Shared Cultural Heritage Between Iran and China Plays a Key Role in Deepening Bilateral Relations

TEHRAN (Iran News) Minister Seyed Reza Salehi Amiri conveyed his message on Tuesday, October 13, during the opening ceremony of the exhibition “Gift of Silk: A Review of Iran–China Relations.” He noted:

“Cultural diplomacy is an important strategy for achieving cultural, economic, and political advancement and can serve as one of the most effective tools for fostering cultural connections among nations. Iran and China—two great civilizations of East and West Asia—have shared deep cultural and commercial ties since ancient times. In Iran’s cultural diplomacy, this shared heritage plays a distinctive role in expanding relations between the two countries.”

Salehi Amiri added that this shared heritage reflects the mutual cultural influences rooted in the religious traditions of the Iranian world. He noted that Zoroastrian and Manichaean customs historically contributed to shaping and consolidating economic and political relations. The exchange of ambassadors and trade caravans in the past, he said, symbolizes this longstanding civilizational connection.

“In today’s cultural policies,” he continued, “this convergence must be pursued in such a way that Iran–China relations are not confined merely to economic dimensions, but evolve into a profound bond between the hearts and cultural identities of both nations—a bond rooted in a brilliant past that continues to illuminate present-day interactions.”

The minister stressed the need for a scientific and precise understanding of the shared cultural roots of the two nations, explaining that such knowledge provides a clearer picture of their ancient and interconnected identities in art and culture. This understanding, he said, fosters a shared sense of civilizational heritage that can serve as an inspiring beacon for future cultural cooperation.

Salehi Amiri also pointed out that while religious exchanges—through Zoroastrianism, Manichaeism, and Islam—represent spiritual dimensions of this interaction, the Silk Road and the Royal Road stand as enduring symbols of trade and exchange across land and sea routes. The influence of literature, art, pottery, and metalwork seen along the trade stations between the two countries remains evident in their archaeological heritage and could form the basis for joint research among Iranian and Chinese scholars and academic institutions.

Highlighting the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening official ties, Salehi Amiri described cultural heritage as a civilizational gateway for expanding multifaceted relations between Iran and China. He cited exhibitions such as “Gift of Silk”—organized by the Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and Tourism—as examples of purposeful cultural diplomacy in action.

The minister further announced that the ministry’s next initiative will focus on the maritime heritage of both nations. He expressed hope that this collaboration, centered on understanding maritime culture and technology, will showcase the ancient creativity of the Iranian and Chinese peoples.

Finally, Salehi Amiri voiced optimism that these cultural exchanges will pave the way for greater numbers of Chinese tourists to visit the ancient land of Iran.

Meanwhile earlier Salehi Amiri had emphasized the need for a well-defined model of tourism governance that can shape the country’s development trajectory in this sector for at least the next 20 years.

During his visit to the Tourism Deputy Office and in a meeting with its deputy, directors, and experts, Salehi Amiri stated:

“We need a desirable model of tourism governance that will determine the direction of this industry’s development for the next two decades.”

He announced that the ministry plans to strengthen its ongoing presence and engagement in the tourism sector, adding:

“Construction of a new Tourism Deputy building at the ministry’s central complex will begin soon. This project aims to enhance administrative infrastructure and increase focus on specialized planning.”

Highlighting the valuable experience of Mohseni Bandpey, the newly appointed Deputy for Tourism, Salehi Amiri described him as:

“A capable manager, well-versed in the country’s administrative system, and with a record of successful management. I am confident that under his leadership, the future of the Tourism Deputy Office will be brighter and more promising.”

The minister underscored the importance of presenting a realistic and safe image of Iran to the international community, stating:

“Iran is one of the safest countries in the world, yet some foreign media occasionally portray a distorted picture. We must continually highlight the phrase ‘Safe Iran’ to ensure that the true reality of our country is accurately reflected.”